The computer
refuses instruction—mind
and memory fighting
The computer
refuses instruction—mind
and memory fighting
I hear a bird’s song
and see a cardinal—words
and music combined
The L roars by
then the street resettles
into deeper silence
Instead of white
purple afterimages
of departed snow
The sun struggles
with cold air—we carry-wear
coats we wear-carry
The wind wants motion
and won’t be ignored—we hope
it’s going our way
Miss Curtis writes, “I’m
lonely” before the words sink
in their blackboard pond
The alarm’s noise rolls
downhill—I begin chasing
what I set going
It backs into rooms
blinking to patterns
only it fathoms
Neighbors start leaving
at seven—gentle rain at first,
then a downpour